Best Cordless Drills UK 2026: Tested & Reviewed
Best Cordless Drills UK 2026: Tested & Reviewed
A cordless drill-driver is the single most useful power tool a homeowner can own. From hanging pictures and building flat-pack furniture to drilling through masonry and driving structural screws, a quality cordless drill handles it all with ease. The technology has advanced enormously over the past decade: modern 18-volt and 20-volt lithium-ion tools deliver performance that professional tradespeople rely on daily, and the battery platforms from brands like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Milwaukee now offer compatibility across dozens of tools — making your drill battery investment part of a broader ecosystem.
The UK market in 2026 offers something for everyone, from capable budget drills for occasional DIY use at under £60, to professional-grade combi drills with brushless motors and 100+ Nm of torque designed for daily heavy-duty use on site. Understanding what differentiates a budget drill from a professional one — and whether those differences matter for your use case — is central to making a smart purchase. Key factors include voltage (a direct proxy for power potential), motor technology (brushed vs brushless), torque settings, impact function, and battery capacity.
We tested five of the best cordless drills currently available in the UK, drilling into brick, concrete, wood, and metal, and driving screws into hardwood and structural timber. We assessed power, balance and ergonomics, chuck quality, battery life, and overall build quality. The results are below — we are confident our recommendations will serve you well whether you are a weekend DIYer or a regular user who needs a tool that can take sustained punishment.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| # | Product | Voltage | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DeWalt DCD796D2 Brushless Combi Editor’s Choice | 18V | £189.00 | Best professional-grade drill |
| 2 | Makita DHP487RTJ Combi Drill | 18V | £174.99 | Best for tradespeople and heavy DIY |
| 3 | Bosch PSB 18 LI-2 AdvancedImpact | 18V | £119.99 | Best mid-range for keen DIYers |
| 4 | Ryobi RCD18022L ONE+ | 18V | £79.99 | Best budget/platform entry point |
| 5 | Black+Decker BDCDD12KB-GB | 12V | £49.99 | Best lightweight compact drill |
Detailed Reviews
1. DeWalt DCD796D2 18V Brushless Combi Drill Editor’s Choice
The DeWalt DCD796D2 is the cordless drill we recommend without hesitation to anyone who wants professional-grade performance with rock-solid reliability. Built around DeWalt’s XR brushless motor platform, it produces up to 65 Nm of torque and 2-speed gearbox output ranging from a precise low-speed screwdriving mode (0–500 rpm) to a fast high-speed drilling mode (0–2,000 rpm). The brushless motor runs cooler, more efficiently, and lasts significantly longer than the brushed motors found in budget drills — a meaningful difference for regular users.
In our testing the DCD796D2 drilled through brick and dense masonry with the impact function engaged without hesitation, drove 6-inch structural screws into hardwood with authority, and handled a morning of continuous use on a single 2.0Ah battery charge. The compact head design (only 166 mm long) is exceptional — it fits into spaces where other drills cannot reach, a genuine advantage when working in tight spots. The LED worklight is well-positioned and genuinely useful. The tool comes supplied with two 2.0Ah batteries and a fast charger in a robust carry case.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V XR Li-Ion |
| Motor type | Brushless |
| Max torque | 65 Nm (hard) |
| No-load speed | 0–500 / 0–2,000 rpm |
| Impact rate | 0–30,600 bpm |
| Chuck | 13 mm keyless |
| Torque settings | 22 + 1 drill |
| Weight (with battery) | 1.7 kg |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Pros
- Exceptional brushless motor performance
- Compact 166 mm head — fits tight spaces
- 65 Nm torque handles demanding tasks
- Includes 2 batteries and fast charger
- 3-year DeWalt warranty
- Part of DeWalt XR 18V platform
Cons
- Higher price than comparable brushed models
- Supplied 2.0Ah batteries are small — larger batteries useful for extended use
- Heavy for very light occasional use
2. Makita DHP487RTJ 18V Brushless Combi Drill
Makita is the brand of choice for the majority of professional tradespeople in the UK, and the DHP487RTJ is a testament to why. The compact body design (165 mm head length) belies the impressive 73 Nm of maximum torque that the brushless motor delivers — slightly more than the DeWalt, making it the more powerful option for demanding materials. The 25-position torque ring gives precise clutch control, and the two-speed gearbox makes it equally at home driving tiny screws into plasterboard or large bolts into structural timber.
The DHP487RTJ comes with two large 5.0Ah batteries, giving it exceptional runtime on a single charge — a full day’s work on a building site is realistic on one battery, let alone two. The 4-pole motor is compact yet powerful, and the overall balance in the hand is excellent. Makita’s LXT 18V platform is the most extensive power tool ecosystem in the world, meaning your battery investment here opens the door to hundreds of compatible tools. The 3-year Makita warranty is standard on all registered UK purchases.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V LXT Li-Ion |
| Motor type | Brushless 4-pole |
| Max torque | 73 Nm (hard) |
| No-load speed | 0–550 / 0–2,100 rpm |
| Chuck | 13 mm keyless |
| Torque settings | 25 + 1 drill |
| Battery included | 2 x 5.0Ah |
| Weight (with battery) | 1.9 kg |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Pros
- 73 Nm torque — the most powerful in our selection
- Supplied with 2 x 5.0Ah batteries (exceptional runtime)
- Compact body for a high-torque tool
- 25 torque settings for precise clutch control
- Part of the world’s largest 18V tool platform
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the DeWalt (5.0Ah batteries add weight)
- Higher price than the DeWalt equivalent
- Some users find the grip slightly wide
3. Bosch PSB 18 LI-2 AdvancedImpact 18V
The Bosch PSB 18 LI-2 AdvancedImpact is the ideal cordless drill for the keen UK DIYer who wants a genuinely capable tool without paying professional tool prices. Its 38 Nm maximum torque is more than adequate for all standard domestic drilling and screwdriving tasks, and the impact function handles brick and concrete effectively for the kind of jobs a homeowner encounters — hanging shelves, fitting curtain rails, routing cables. The Syneon Chip technology intelligently regulates power delivery to protect the motor and battery from overload.
The ergonomic soft-grip handle is comfortable during extended use, and the tool balance is excellent. The 21-position torque ring covers all standard screw sizes, and the two-speed gearbox makes switching between delicate and heavy-duty work straightforward. Supplied with two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger in a hard case, the kit represents outstanding value for a quality Bosch tool. The 3-year warranty from a brand with exceptional UK service coverage adds further confidence.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V Li-Ion |
| Motor type | Brushed |
| Max torque | 38 Nm |
| No-load speed | 0–450 / 0–1,800 rpm |
| Impact rate | 0–26,250 bpm |
| Chuck | 10 mm keyless |
| Torque settings | 21 + 1 drill |
| Weight (with battery) | 1.5 kg |
| Warranty | 3 years |
Pros
- Excellent mid-range price
- Syneon Chip intelligent motor protection
- Lightweight at 1.5 kg
- Good ergonomics and balance
- 3-year Bosch warranty
- Includes hard case
Cons
- Brushed motor — less efficient and shorter lifespan than brushless
- 38 Nm torque limited for heavy masonry
- 10 mm chuck limits larger bit diameter
4. Ryobi RCD18022L ONE+ 18V Drill
Ryobi’s ONE+ system is the most accessible professional-grade battery platform in the UK, with over 100 compatible tools all running on the same 18V battery. The RCD18022L drill is an excellent entry point into this ecosystem — capable, comfortable, and remarkably affordable for an 18V brushless machine. It delivers 40 Nm of torque, adequate for all standard DIY tasks and many light trade applications, with 24 torque settings for fine clutch control.
The inclusion of a brushless motor at this price point is genuinely impressive and marks Ryobi’s progress in recent years. The LED worklight is integrated into the base of the motor housing, providing effective illumination of the work area. The supplied 2.0Ah battery gives adequate runtime for typical DIY sessions, and the USB charging indicator is a convenient touch. If you plan to build out a collection of garden and home power tools over time, the Ryobi ONE+ platform offers exceptional breadth at accessible prices.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 18V ONE+ Li-Ion |
| Motor type | Brushless |
| Max torque | 40 Nm |
| No-load speed | 0–500 / 0–2,000 rpm |
| Chuck | 13 mm keyless |
| Torque settings | 24 + 1 drill |
| Weight (with battery) | 1.6 kg |
| Warranty | 3 years (registered) |
Pros
- Brushless motor at budget price
- Part of ONE+ system with 100+ compatible tools
- 3-year warranty (registered)
- 24 torque settings
- Lightweight and well-balanced
Cons
- 40 Nm torque — limited for heavy masonry
- 2.0Ah battery gives limited runtime
- No impact function on this model
5. Black+Decker BDCDD12KB-GB 12V Compact Drill
Not everyone needs the full power and weight of an 18V drill. For light, everyday tasks — hanging pictures, assembling flat-pack furniture, tightening fixings, and occasional shallow drilling into plasterboard — a compact 12V drill is perfectly adequate and significantly more comfortable to use for extended periods or in awkward positions overhead. The Black+Decker BDCDD12KB-GB is the best compact drill currently available at its price point, delivering sufficient torque for all light-duty applications in a package that weighs just 0.8 kg with battery.
The ergonomic pistol grip is genuinely comfortable, and the LED worklight is well-positioned. Eleven torque settings allow adequate control for different screw sizes and materials, and the 10 mm keyless chuck accepts all standard bit sizes. Battery life from the 1.5Ah pack is good for a day of light DIY work. For renters and occasional users who need a tool for small jobs around the home, this is a practical, affordable, and reliable choice.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 12V Li-Ion |
| Motor type | Brushed |
| Max torque | 30 Nm |
| No-load speed | 0–650 rpm |
| Chuck | 10 mm keyless |
| Torque settings | 11 + 1 drill |
| Weight (with battery) | 0.8 kg |
| Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Very lightweight at just 0.8 kg
- Excellent price under £50
- Comfortable for sustained light use
- Ideal for renters and occasional DIYers
- Compact for easy storage
Cons
- No impact function
- 12V not suitable for masonry
- Limited to light-duty tasks only
Cordless Drill Buying Guide
Voltage: 12V, 18V, or Beyond?
Voltage is a proxy for maximum power potential. 12V drills are lightweight and ideal for light screwdriving, flat-pack assembly, and drilling into wood and plasterboard. 18V drills (the most common professional standard) handle all standard domestic and trade tasks including masonry drilling with impact function. 54V and higher tools are available for the most demanding professional applications. For most UK homeowners, 18V is the ideal choice — powerful enough for everything you are likely to need, with a huge range of compatible tools from all major manufacturers.
Brushless vs Brushed Motors
Brushed motors use physical carbon brushes to conduct electricity to the motor — these brushes gradually wear down and need replacing. Brushless motors use electronic commutation with no physical contacts, resulting in greater efficiency (more of the battery energy becomes torque rather than heat), longer motor life, and less maintenance. Brushless tools typically run 20–50% longer per charge and last significantly longer under heavy use. At the same power level, a brushless drill will always outperform a brushed equivalent. The premium over brushed equivalents has narrowed considerably in recent years.
Combi Drill vs Drill-Driver
A combi drill (combination drill) incorporates an impact function that adds hammer action for drilling into masonry and concrete in addition to standard drilling and screwdriving. A drill-driver only drills and drives screws — it cannot drill into brick or concrete effectively. For most UK homes (which extensively use masonry fixings for shelves, curtain rails, and cable routes), a combi drill is essential. If you only ever work with wood and plasterboard, a standard drill-driver is adequate.
Battery Platform: Think Long-Term
Modern cordless tools use lithium-ion batteries that are often shared across a manufacturer’s entire product range. Choosing a drill from a brand with a wide, long-term battery platform (DeWalt XR, Makita LXT, Bosch Professional 18V, Ryobi ONE+) means your battery investment can be used with an expanding collection of saws, sanders, impact drivers, and garden tools. This compatibility makes multi-tool ownership significantly more economical in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a drill driver and an impact driver?
A drill-driver uses rotational force (torque) delivered smoothly to drive screws and drill holes. An impact driver delivers rapid rotational impacts (several thousand per minute) alongside torque, making it far more effective at driving long or stubborn screws and hex-shank bolts. Impact drivers are faster and more powerful for pure screwdriving but are less suitable for drilling holes or tasks requiring delicate torque control. Many professionals use a combi drill and an impact driver as a pair — one for drilling, one for driving.
How do I drill into masonry without the drill wandering?
Use a centre punch (a sharp metal point that you tap with a hammer) to create a small indentation at the exact point where you want to drill before you begin. This prevents the masonry bit from wandering across the hard surface when you start. Start at low speed to establish the hole before increasing speed. Engage the hammer/impact function on your combi drill. Use a masonry bit — standard HSS bits will not cut brick or concrete. Keep the drill perpendicular to the wall and apply steady, consistent pressure.
How long does a cordless drill battery last?
Lithium-ion tool batteries typically retain good capacity for 500–1,000 charge cycles with proper use. Depending on how frequently you use the drill, this translates to 5–10 years for a typical DIY user. Battery life is preserved by not fully discharging before recharging, not leaving batteries on the charger indefinitely after charging is complete, and storing them in a cool, dry location. Most major brands sell replacement batteries separately, extending the life of the tool itself indefinitely.
What torque setting should I use for different screws?
Torque settings on a drill control how much force is applied before the clutch disengages, preventing over-tightening and stripped screw heads. As a guide: small cabinet screws in softwood — settings 1–4; medium wood screws — settings 5–10; large structural screws in hardwood — settings 15–21; drilling (no clutch, maximum torque) — the drill setting (marked with a drill bit symbol). Always start at a low setting and increase until the screw drives cleanly without the clutch slipping mid-drive, then reduce one setting to use the clutch correctly.
Tackle Every DIY Task with Confidence
Our top recommendation for most UK users is the DeWalt DCD796D2 — professional-grade brushless performance in a compact, lightweight package. For maximum power and runtime, the Makita DHP487RTJ with its 5.0Ah batteries is hard to beat. Budget-conscious buyers should look at the excellent-value Ryobi RCD18022L.
View the DeWalt DCD796D2 on Amazon UK →
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